What Is Gum Recession? Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Updated: 3 days ago
Medically reviewed by Dr. Baraa Alnahhal, MD · Last reviewed: October 17, 2026
Quick Answer
Gum recession is a form of gum disease in which gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, exposing the roots and making teeth more prone to cavities and sensitivity [1]. It can affect one or several teeth and is most common in people over 65, about 88% of whom have it [1] [2]. Causes include hard brushing, periodontal disease and tobacco [1].
Key takeaways
Definition: Gum tissue pulling away from the teeth and exposing the roots [1].
Common symptoms: Visible root exposure, sensitivity to heat, cold and sweets, and discomfort near the gum line [1].
Major causes: Aggressive brushing, plaque and tartar, periodontal disease, tobacco use, piercings, misaligned teeth, and genetics [1].
Reversibility: Receding gums can't grow back, but treatment can stop them from getting worse [1].
Main treatment: Gum graft surgery is the most predictable and long-lasting option for correcting recession [1].
Prevention: Soft-bristled brushing, daily flossing, no tobacco, and regular dental cleanings [1].
What the research says
Recession is very common, and it happens even with good hygiene. A review of epidemiologic studies found that 88% of people aged 65 and older, and 50% of people aged 18 to 64, have one or more sites with recession. It occurred in people with both good and poor oral hygiene, and was linked to trauma, malpositioned teeth, inflammation, and tobacco use (Kassab and Cohen, J Am Dent Assoc, 2003) [2].
Connective tissue grafts still give the best root coverage. A systematic review of 48 trials, with a network meta-analysis of 24 of them, found that adding a subepithelial connective tissue graft to a coronally advanced flap improved mean root coverage by 13.41 percentage points over the flap alone (95% CI 8.06 to 18.75). Enamel matrix derivative and platelet-rich fibrin did not show a significant extra benefit (Chambrone et al., J Periodontol, 2022) [3].
The best-looking result can come with more discomfort. A systematic review of 26 randomized trials (867 patients, 1,708 recessions) found that graft-based techniques gave the best aesthetic scores, but connective tissue grafts were linked to more patient morbidity, and the graft can slightly alter tissue color and texture (Cairo et al., J Clin Periodontol, 2020) [4].
How does gum recession affect your teeth and gums?
Gum recession is more than a cosmetic concern. When the gums recede, the tooth root loses its protective cover. Unlike the crown of the tooth, which is protected by hard enamel, the root is covered by a material called cementum [1], which isn't as strong.
Left untreated, gum recession can lead to bone loss, teeth that feel “wiggly,” or even tooth loss [1]. Bone loss is common in areas of gum recession [1], which is why dentists also check the pockets around each tooth.
What causes gum recession?
Several factors can make gums recede. Knowing them helps with both prevention and treatment.
1. Behavioral factors
Brushing too hard or too aggressively can wear away gum tissue [1]. Smoking or chewing tobacco is also a cause of recession [1].
2. Oral health and hygiene
Plaque or tartar buildup and periodontal disease can destroy gum tissue [1]. Poor oral hygiene often contributes, but not always. Many people simply have a genetic predisposition to thin gum tissue [1].
3. Injury and structural issues
Trauma or injury to the gum tissue, including from lip and tongue piercings, can cause recession [1]. Abnormal tooth positioning (misalignment) can also play a role, and people who have had braces or other orthodontic treatment are more likely to develop recession [1].
What are the warning signs of gum recession?
Warning signs of gum recession include teeth that look longer, sensitivity to heat, cold and sweets, pain near the gum line and loose teeth [1]. Watch for:
Visible root exposure: Teeth may look longer than they used to as the roots show [1].
Sensitivity: Discomfort with heat, cold, and sweets [1].
Discomfort during hygiene: Sensitivity when brushing, flossing, or at dental cleanings [1].
Pain near the gum line [1]. Discomfort at the edge of the gums can be an early warning.
Tooth mobility: A tooth that feels wiggly can signal bone loss [1], and needs prompt attention.
How is gum recession diagnosed by a dentist?
A dentist can diagnose gum recession during a routine exam. They use a periodontal probe to measure the amount of recession on each tooth and to measure the periodontal pockets around each tooth [1].
How is gum recession managed and treated?
Receding gums can't grow back, but treatment depends on the cause and can prevent further loss [1].
Reducing sensitivity
A dentist can apply fluoride varnish or other desensitizing agents [1]. At home, a desensitizing toothpaste with active ingredients such as potassium nitrate, stannous fluoride, arginine, or strontium chloride [1] can help. It works best when used long term and can take several weeks to start working [1].
Nonsurgical treatments
Deep cleaning and antibiotics: If recession comes from periodontal disease, scaling and root planing under local anesthesia removes bacteria from deep under the gum line. Sometimes a periodontist places an antibiotic directly under the gums [1].
Dental bonding: Tooth-colored composite resin can cover the exposed root, making it less noticeable and more comfortable [1].
Orthodontics: If a tooth is crooked, tipped, or rotated, braces may help. Once the tooth is aligned, the gum margin may correct itself over time [1] [5].
Gum graft surgery
In most cases, surgery is needed to fully correct recession. Gum graft surgery is the most predictable and long-lasting option, and it is typically done by a periodontist [1]. The graft usually comes from the roof of your mouth, though it can occasionally be sterilized human donor tissue [1]. The surgeon stitches it over the receded area. In most cases, people feel back to normal in about two weeks [1], depending on how many teeth were treated, where the graft came from, and the type of procedure.
How can you prevent gum recession?
Gum recession cannot always be prevented, but brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush, daily flossing, regular dental cleanings and avoiding tobacco can reduce the risk [1]. You can reduce your risk by:
Brushing thoroughly twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush [1].
Flossing once a day [1].
Using an antimicrobial mouthwash twice a day [1].
Keeping up with dental cleanings. Many people can maintain healthy gums with six-month cleanings, but some need more frequent visits [1].
Not smoking or using chewing tobacco [1].
See your dentist or periodontist at the first sign of recession [1]. The sooner it is detected and treated, the better the chance of establishing optimal oral health [1].
Conclusion
Gum recession is common but manageable. With gentle oral hygiene, no tobacco, and early professional care, you can protect your gums and keep your smile healthy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is gum recession?
It happens when gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, exposing the roots.
Can receding gums grow back?
No. Receding gums can't grow back, but you can take steps to keep recession from getting worse.
Is gum recession common?
Yes. About 88% of people over age 65 have recession on one or more teeth.
What are the most common causes?
Brushing too hard, plaque or tartar buildup, periodontal disease, tobacco use, and a genetic tendency toward thin gums.
Does brushing too hard cause recession?
Yes. Brushing too hard or too aggressively can wear away gum tissue.
Can smoking cause gum recession?
Yes. Smoking and chewing tobacco are known causes.
Is gum recession genetic?
Many people have a genetic predisposition to thin gum tissue.
What does a receded gum look like?
The tooth looks longer than before and the root may be visible.
Why are my teeth sensitive to cold?
Exposed roots aren't covered by protective enamel. They're covered by cementum, which isn't as strong.
Can braces cause gum recession?
People who have had braces or other orthodontic treatment are more likely to develop recession. Braces can also help when crooked teeth are the cause.
What is a periodontal probe?
A tool dentists use to measure gum recession and the depth of the pockets around each tooth.
What is a healthy pocket depth?
Between 1 and 3 millimeters.
Can plaque cause recession?
Yes. Plaque or tartar buildup can lead to periodontal disease, which destroys gum tissue.
Is gum recession painful?
It can cause pain or sensitivity near the gum line, though some people have no pain.
Can gum recession lead to tooth loss?
Yes. Left untreated, it can cause bone loss, loose teeth, and even tooth loss.
What is scaling and root planing?
A deep dental cleaning, done under local anesthesia, that removes bacteria from deep under the gum line.
What is dental bonding?
A treatment in which tooth-colored composite resin covers the exposed root.
What is gum graft surgery?
A procedure in which a graft replaces missing gum tissue and is stitched in place.
Where does the graft tissue come from?
Usually from the roof of your mouth, and occasionally from sterilized human donor tissue.
How long is recovery from gum surgery?
In most cases, people feel back to normal in about two weeks.
Can fluoride help?
A dentist can apply fluoride varnish to help reduce the discomfort of exposed roots.
What is the best toothbrush for recession?
A soft-bristled toothbrush.
Should I use an electric toothbrush?
Many people like them, and some models have pressure sensors that warn you when you brush too hard. Ask your dentist what suits you.
Can piercings cause recession?
Yes. Lip and tongue piercings can injure the gums.
Are wiggly teeth a sign of recession?
They can be. Tooth mobility may signal bone loss, so see your dentist promptly.
Can misaligned teeth cause recession?
Yes. Abnormal tooth positioning is one of the causes.
How often should I get a cleaning?
Many people maintain healthy gums with six-month cleanings, but some need to go more often. Follow your dentist's advice.
Can mouthwash help?
An antimicrobial mouthwash used twice a day can help lower your risk of infection-related recession.
What is cementum?
The material that covers the tooth root. It isn't as strong as enamel.
Is gum recession curable?
It can't be cured, but it can be managed successfully with proper treatment and care.
Can pregnancy affect my gums?
Hormonal changes can inflame the gums. If you notice gum changes, mention them to your dentist.
What is a periodontist?
A gum disease specialist who typically performs gum graft surgery.
What if only one tooth is affected?
That's possible. Recession can affect one tooth or many.
Can recession cause pain when brushing?
Yes. Sensitivity when brushing and flossing is a common warning sign.
Can I use salt water rinses?
They may feel soothing, but they can't make receded gums grow back. See your dentist for treatment.
Can abrasive toothpaste make recession worse?
Brushing too hard is a cause of recession, so ask your dentist to recommend a gentle toothpaste.
Can home remedies restore gum tissue?
Receding gums can't grow back, so be wary of any home remedy that claims to. Ask your dentist first.
How do I stop my gums from receding further?
Brush gently with a soft brush, floss daily, avoid tobacco, and see your dentist regularly.
Can diabetes affect my gums?
Diabetes raises the risk of gum disease, so keep your dentist informed about your health.
Is gum recession a normal part of aging?
It's most common in people over 65, but it isn't inevitable, and you can lower your risk.
Is dental bonding like a filling?
It's similar. Dentists use tooth-colored resin to cover the exposed root.
What is the gingival margin?
The edge of the gum tissue where it meets the tooth.
Do receding gums cause bad breath?
Gum disease can cause bad breath. If you notice it, see your dentist.
Is it too late to treat gum recession?
No. Even if it can't be reversed, treatment can stop it from getting worse.
What happens if I ignore it?
You risk bone loss, loose teeth, and eventually tooth loss.
Can desensitizing toothpaste help?
Yes. Look for potassium nitrate, stannous fluoride, arginine, or strontium chloride. It works best with long-term use and can take several weeks.
Who should I call first?
Your dentist can evaluate you and refer you to a periodontist for a gum grafting consultation if needed.
What are the nonsurgical options?
Topical antibiotics, scaling and root planing, dental bonding, and orthodontics can help in mild cases.
When is surgery needed?
In most cases, gum recession surgery is needed to fully correct the problem, especially for moderate to severe recession.
Related Reading
Helpful Resources
References
Cleveland Clinic. Gum Recession. Cleveland Clinic. Medically reviewed; last updated April 14, 2022. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22753-gum-recession
Kassab MM, Cohen RE. The etiology and prevalence of gingival recession. J Am Dent Assoc. 2003;134(2):220-225. PMID: 12636127. https://doi.org/10.14219/jada.archive.2003.0137
Chambrone L, Barootchi S, Avila-Ortiz G. Efficacy of biologics in root coverage and gingival augmentation therapy: an American Academy of Periodontology best evidence systematic review and network meta-analysis. J Periodontol. 2022;93(12):1771-1802. PMID: 36279123. https://doi.org/10.1002/JPER.22-0075
Cairo F, Barootchi S, Tavelli L, et al. Aesthetic- and patient-related outcomes following root coverage procedures: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. J Clin Periodontol. 2020;47(11):1403-1415. PMID: 32654220. https://doi.org/10.1111/jcpe.13346
Jati AS, Furquim LZ, Consolaro A. Gingival recession: its causes and types, and the importance of orthodontic treatment. Dental Press J Orthod. 2016;21(3):18-29. PMID 27409650. https://doi.org/10.1590/2177-6709.21.3.018-029.oin
Medical disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about a medical condition or before making decisions about treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read here.
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